Method and system for air ventilation, sterilization and filtration

ABSTRACT

A stratified displacement recirculating air ventilation system for sterilizing and filtering unpurified air within a confined space, the stratified air displacement system consisting of air circulation between one or more negative pressure air collection ducts, one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts and one or more filtration units wherein the air circulates through the biocide chamber passing through HEPA filters with exposure to UV-C germicidal lamps.

PRIORITY UNDER 35 U.S.0 Section 119(e) & 37 C.F.R. Section 1.78

This nonprovisional application claims priority based upon the followingprior U.S. Provisional Patent Application entitled Method And System ForAir Ventilation, Sterilization And Filtration, Application No.63/119,834 filed Dec. 1, 2020, in the name of Wilson Martensen, which ishereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present specification relates generally to a method and system forair ventilation, and more particularly to a stratified air displacementrecirculating air ventilation system with a high intensity light UV-Csterilization and filtration unit biocide cham ber.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The following includes information that may be useful in understandingthe present disclosure. It is not an admission that any of theinformation provided herein is prior art nor material to the presentlydescribed or claimed inventions, nor that any publication or documentthat is specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

It has been shown that for viruses, such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus, thevirus can be rendered inactive if it is directly illuminated by UV-C atthe effective dose level. UV-C can play an effective role with othermethods of disinfection, but it is essential that individuals beprotected to prevent UV hazards to the eyes and skin as UV-C should notbe used to disinfect the hands. [see IES Photobiology Committee. (2020).IES Committee Report: Germicidal Ultraviolet (GUV)—Frequently AskedQuestions.]

To date, UV-C radiation has been effective against all corona viruses inall published investigations, although the absorption properties of thesample media reduced inactivation success. The calculated upper limitfor the log-reduction median dose (in low absorbance media) is 10.6mJ/cm², but the probably more precise estimation is 3.7 mJ/cm². [see GMSHyg Infect Control. 2020; 15: Doc08.]

The effectiveness of UV-C as a direct disinfection is due to the energyabsorbed by genetic material, thus limiting replication, and byabsorption of other cellular or viral components such as proteins, thuslimiting attachment and infectivity. UV-C photons can directly alterchemical bonds, affecting their structure and function, where photonsare absorbed by DNA/RNA the resulting damage can inhibit themicroorganism's ability to replicate, rendering it no longer infectious.[see Harm W. Biological effects of ultraviolet radiation. UnitedKingdom: University Press (1980)]

For sterilization and filtrations units, the technical specificationsshould give the UV-C irradiance at a fixed distance from the UV front ofthe device and the UV dose (irradiance multiplied by the exposure timein seconds) should be at least 40 mJ/cm² to inactivate viruses onperfectly flat and ideal surfaces. [see IUVA Ultraviolet Association.(n.d.). Advice for the selection and operation of equipment for the UVdisinfection of air and surfaces.]

There is a need for an air ventilation system with a high intensitylight UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber thatsterilizes and filters unpurified air and eliminates viruses andcontaminates within a confined space for the health and safety ofindividuals within that confined space, more specifically, a systemwhich creates a sterile indoor breathing air, maintains neutral relativeroom pressurization, conducive to room temperature regulation, promotesefficient air recirculation, delivers an effective clean air deliveryrate (CADR), creates an additional localized air change cycle per hourand contains ethical means of handling contaminated air.

Accordingly, there remains a need for improvements in the art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with an aspect of the invention, there is provided astratified displacement recirculating air ventilation system forsterilizing and filtering unpurified air within a confined space, thestratified air displacement system consisting of air circulation betweenone or more negative pressure air collection ducts, one or more positivepressure air return distribution ducts and one or more filtration unitswherein the air circulates through the biocide chamber passing throughHEPA filters with exposure to UV-C germicidal lamps.

According to an embodiment of the invention, there is provided astratified displacement recirculating air ventilation system forsterilizing and filtering unpurified air within a confined space,comprising: one or more air intake suction vents mounted in the upperroom of an occupied zone coupled to one or more negative pressure airdistribution ducts such that said unpurified air is drawn upwards intosaid one or more negative pressure air distribution ducts wherein saidone or more negative pressure air distribution ducts delivers saidunpurified air to a high intensity light UV-C sterilization andfiltration unit biocide chamber via negative pressure; one or more airdampers coupled to a fresh air mixture duct further coupled to a directair capture ventilation duct such that an optional fresh air sourceoutside and for the process of capturing contaminated air directly fromthe point of sources of said confined space is drawn into said highintensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamberwherein said unpurified air is processed into purified and sterile airvia said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unitbiocide chamber by means of the biocide chamber's aerodynamicspecification meeting the completed UVC dosage requirement to kill andor inactivate airborne pathogens; one or more positive pressure airreturn distribution ducts coupled to one or more fans such that saidpurified air is drawn out from said high intensity light UV-Csterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber through said one ormore positive pressure air return distribution ducts and out into saidconfined space.

The high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocidechamber comprises: a plurality of sterilization cells, a plurality ofUV-C germicidal lamps, a plurality of surface impact air foil grills,and one or more HEPA filters; and a plurality of modular framecomponents to expand and provide a longer air travel distance in LinearFlow per Minute (LFM) for UVC Germicidal Irradiation (UVCGI), the moduleframe components comprising a plurality of 180 degree corner sweep airvanes.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, there is provided amethod of sterilizing and filtering unpurified air within a confinedspace, comprising: drawing unpurified air through one or more air intakesuction vents mounted in the upper room of an occupied zone coupled toone or more negative pressure air distribution ducts such that saidunpurified air is drawn upwards into said one or more negative pressureair distribution ducts; delivering said unpurified air to a highintensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chambervia negative pressure via said one or more negative pressure airdistribution ducts; optionally drawing fresh air into said highintensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chambervia one or more air dampers coupled to a direction a fresh air mixtureduct further coupled to a direct air capture ventilation duct;processing said unpurified air into purified and sterile air via saidhigh intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocidechamber by means of the biocide chamber's aerodynamic specificationmeeting the completed UVC dosage requirement to kill and or inactivateairborne pathogens; returning said purified air to said confined spacevia one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts coupledto one or more fans such that said purified air is drawn out from saidhigh intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocidechamber through said one or more positive pressure air returndistribution ducts.

The high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocidechamber comprises: a plurality of sterilization cells, a plurality ofUV-C germicidal lamps, a plurality of surface impact air foil grills,and one or more HEPA filters; and a plurality of modular framecomponents to expand and provide a longer air travel distance in LinearFlow per Minute (LFM) for UVC Germicidal Irradiation (UVCGI), the moduleframe components comprising a plurality of 180 degree corner sweep airvanes.

For purposes of summarizing the invention, certain aspects, advantages,and novel features of the invention have been described herein. It is tobe understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achievedin accordance with any one particular embodiment of the invention. Thus,the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achievesor optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught hereinwithout necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught orsuggested herein. The features of the invention which are believed to benovel are particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in theconcluding portion of the specification. These and other features,aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become betterunderstood with reference to the following drawings and detaileddescription.

Other aspects and features according to the present application willbecome apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review ofthe following description of embodiments of the invention in conjunctionwith the accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings which show, byway of example only, embodiments of the invention, and how they may becarried into effect, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a system diagram of an air ventilation system according to anembodiment;

FIG. 2 is a system diagram of an air ventilation system according to anembodiment;

FIG. 3A is an isometric view of the outer components of a biocidechamber according to an embodiment;

FIG. 3B is an isometric view of the inner components of a biocidechamber according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4A is a sectional view of the inner components of a biocide chamberaccording to an embodiment;

FIG. 4B is an isometric view of the outer components of a biocidechamber according to an embodiment;

FIG. 4C is a rear view of the outer components of a biocide chamberaccording to an embodiment;

FIG. 5A is an exploded view of a biocide chamber according to anembodiment;

FIG. 5B is a sectional view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C is an isometric view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5D is a rear view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6A is a sectional view of a biocide chamber according to anembodiment;

FIG. 6B is an isometric view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6C is a rear view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A is a sectional view of a biocide chamber according to anembodiment;

FIG. 7B is an isometric view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7C is a rear view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8A is a sectional view of a biocide chamber according to anembodiment;

FIG. 8B is a sectional isometric view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 8C is a sectional rear view of the biocide chamber of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9 illustrates an application of a biocide chamber in accordancewith an embodiment;

FIG. 10 illustrates an application of a biocide chamber in accordancewith an embodiment;

FIG. 11 illustrates an application of a biocide chamber in accordancewith an embodiment; and

FIG. 12 illustrates an application of a biocide chamber in accordancewith an embodiment.

Like reference numerals indicated like or corresponding elements in thedrawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The stratified air displacement recirculating air ventilation systemwith a high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unitbiocide chamber, in principle, functions as a vacuum air sterilizer andfilter unit that can interrelate with existing heating, ventilation andair conditioning (HVAC) systems and/or function as a standaloneventilation unit. The goal is to provide clean, fresh and sterile air bymeans of an effective UVC germicidal irradiation (UVCGI) dosageutilizing the maximum potential of UV-C germicidal properties, in asafe, cost effective manner without compromising occupant comfort andpreventing cross room contamination in terms of stable pressuregradient, efficient thermal regulation and constant air circulation atthe same time. It is a simple, cost effective and self-contained systemthat effectively collects air at a predetermined area of a room withidentified high risk of contamination during pre-stratification stage.It does the process by ethical means of handling contaminated airwithout directly releasing possible contaminated air before it issterile

FIG. 1 depicts a system diagram 100 of the stratified air displacementrecirculating air ventilation system with a high intensity light UV-Csterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.In this embodiment, the stratified air displacement system consists ofair circulation between one or more negative pressure air collectionducts 104, one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts102 and one or more filtration units 110.

Pre-stratified air is collected by a direct air capture ventilation duct112 and sent through the negative pressure air collection duct 104 whereit undergoes accelerated thermal dynamic behavior. More specifically,the air pressure inside the negative pressure air collection ducts 104has a negative relative to the room air pressure creating conducive airflow movement vis-a-vis the thermal plume/currents natural thermaldynamic behavior. It accelerates and redirects the airflow movement totarget stagnant layer and or air pocket, vertically and diagonally awayfrom its initial location through an air inlet suction vents thatcollects air in an upright airflow motion, preventing air saturation orvolume build up and eliminating horizontal trajectory of airparticulates like dust dander pollen mold and other common allergenincluding airborne pathogens or infectious agent that can cause illnessor disease to room occupants who are in the line of travel or buoyancypath of aerosolized contaminants thus greatly reducing the risks ofinhalation and or physical contact with aerosolized pathogen that aremost likely to happen in the occupied zone.

A direct air capture ventilation duct 112 is employed for the process ofcapturing contaminated air directly from the point of sources, such asexhaled air from patients or with adapters used for mechanicalventilator air outlet attachment. The captured air will enter the directair capture ventilation duct 112 and join the rest of the isolated airstream collected inside the negative pressure air collection ducts 104.A one way air damper 108, which is optional, calibrates the amount ofairflow to the fresh air ventilation duct 114 for controlled percentagefresh air mixture intake requirement. Afresh air ventilation duct 114,also optional, may be employed for the process of delivering thepercentage fresh air mixture intake requirement from either a directopen air source or from an existing conditioned air supply of an HVACsystem, interlink to the negative pressure air collection duct 104 justbefore entering the sterilizing and filtration unit 110. The fresh airpercentage will mix with the collected air from the room and form anisolated air stream that is drawn by vacuum into the sterilizing andfiltration unit 110 biocide chamber.

An external in line fan 106 pulls up the fresh sterile and cleanfiltered air out and forces it into the positive pressure air returndistribution ducts 102. The fan 106 is placed outside of the filtrationunit 110 biocide chamber to optimize the shelf life of the UV-C lampswithin, eliminating unnecessary vibration and by using established HVACcalculations the fans and dampers can be calibrated to balance thedesired relative air pressurization, draft effects and temperatureregulation in the room for occupant comfort while at the same timemeeting the optimal performance of the filtration unit 110 to performand maintain in the operational parameters of the recommended UV-Cdosage for killing and inactivating airborne contaminants.

The positive pressure air return distribution ducts 102 may be laid outhorizontally in the upper room ceiling running the full length of theroom directly above the negative pressure air collection ducts 104, inthe occupied zone; the numbers of ducts and directional airflow arelikewise proportionate to the size of the room and subject to existingor non-existing HVAC ventilation requirement. The positive air pressurecreated by the fan 106 will force sterilized and filtered air into thepositive pressure air return distribution duct 102 and release it outthrough several air diffusers that run the length of the duct/ducts onan upright 15° degree angle generating a throw that will blow towardsthe ceiling and a Coanda effect running parallel the same direction andinterrelate with existing air supply diffusers if any, in the upper roomof the occupied zone, it is the air supply distribution component with apost stratification air displacement action as the draft produced by theair velocity pressure would displace the stratified area in the upperroom ceiling with sterilized and filtered air and maintain desirableroom pressure gradients.

An air sterilization and filter cycle is completed as sterilized andfiltered air is released back into the room from the positive pressureair return distribution ducts 102 through its air diffuser vents with asteady and constant operation an efficient and effective log dosagefactor for airborne pathogen inactivation will be achieved and an idealindoor air quality maintained in a balanced (minimal thermal loss),self-contained ventilation with filtration system that provide thermalcomfort through a conducive air flow and air circulation cycle thatutilize the real time sterilizing benefits of UV-C lamps in a safe andnon-intrusive manner allowing room occupants to work, perform travel andlive a healthy and productive life with some sense of normalcy back inthese challenging time of pandemic.

The process causes an anti-stratification by air displacement usingpositive pressure to force sterilized and filtered air to be released onan upright 15 degree angle towards the ceiling in the upper room of theoccupied zone, interrelating with existing air supply diffusers if anyor act as the sterile and filtered fresh air return supply on standaloneoperation. It prevents air saturation or volume buildup of airparticulates like dust dander pollen mold and other common allergenincluding airborne pathogens or infectious agent inside the upper roomof the occupied zone. The sterile and filtered air return maintainsdesirable room pressure gradients and is also conducive to room aircirculation via accelerated air displacement method, accelerating thenatural thermal dynamic behavior of plumes and or current for efficientand cost effective room air thermal regulation.

In some embodiments, the stratified air displacement recirculating airventilation system with a high intensity light UV-C sterilization andfiltration unit biocide chamber can be integrated into an existing HVACsystem. Its protractile design may accommodate higher air volumecapacity for larger floor area such as, but not limited to, hospitalemergency room/critical care wards, quarantine facilities, schoolclassrooms, restaurants, buses, trains, planes, dentist offices/clinics,office buildings, gyms and event venues/halls.

FIG. 2 depicts a system diagram 200 of the stratified air displacementrecirculating air ventilation system with a high intensity light UV-Csterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.This embodiment displays multiple fans 106 for each of the negativepressure air collection duct 104 and the positive pressure air returndistribution duct 102.

The negative pressure air collection duct 104 begin the air cycleprocess in the upper room ceiling; it is placed horizontally running thefull length of the room directly above the occupied zone, the number andsizing of ducts are proportionate relative to a given room dimensionalarea, obtainable as per HVAC calculations. It has a negative relative tothe room air pressure which creates conducive air flow movementvis-a-vis the thermal plume/currents natural thermal dynamic behavior.It accelerates and redirects the airflow movement to target stagnantlayer and or air pocket at pre-stratification stage, vertically anddiagonally away from its initial location where the risk of inhalationand or physical contact are most likely in the occupied zone.

The pre-stratified air will enter the negative pressure air collectionduct 104 through an air inlet suction vent and collects air in anupright airflow motion thus greatly reducing if not completelyeliminating horizontal trajectory of air particulates like dust danderpollen mold and other common allergen including airborne pathogens orinfectious agent that can cause illness or disease to room occupants whois in the line of travel or buoyancy path of aerosol contaminants.

The external in line fans 106 facilitate sterilized and filtered volumeof air is being drawn up and forced out into the positive pressure airreturn distribution duct 102 which is located directly above thenegative pressure air collection duct 104.

FIG. 3A depicts an isometric view 300 a of the outer components of ahigh intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocidechamber as in one embodiment. The embodiment displays an upright,ductless, standalone plug and play air purifier and would be suitablefor processing up to 48 ft³ or less air volume for filtration andsterilization every 6 to 8 seconds. The filtration unit 110 showncomprises a plurality of high-efficiency particulate absorbing filters,referred to herein as a HEPA filter 302, for trapping and removing aminimum of 99.95% of particles with a diameter of 0.3 μm or greater.Each HEPA filter 302 is inserted into individual cartridge doors 306 andmay be easily removed and replaced after prolonged use. Each cartridgedoor 306 is inserted and housed into individual cartridge slots 312.

An air intake vent 310 and an air outlet vent 308 are shown at theexterior of the filtration unit 110 to draw in air present in thesurroundings and release air that is purified by the filtration unit110. A plurality of UV-C lamp breech doors 304 are as present along theexterior of the filtration unit 110, to provide access to UV-C lampswithin for replacement and maintenance. In some embodiments, a pluralityof switch and light indicators are present for applications such as, butnot limited to, a power switch and power indicator, burnt lamp switchand burnt lamp indicator, filter performance indicator, fan power switchand fan performance indicator.

FIG. 3B depicts an isometric view 300 b of the inner components of thehigh intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocidechamber as in one embodiment. The embodiment displays an upright,ductless, standalone plug and play air purifier and would be suitablefor processing up to 48 ft³ or less air volume for filtration andsterilization every 6 to 8 seconds. The filtration unit 110 is showncomprising a plurality of 180 degree corner sweep air vanes 316, airfoillight trap vents 322, surface impact broil vent grills 320 andgermicidal UV-C lamps 318. The filtration unit 110 also contains aninternal built in fan 314. In some embodiments, the built in fan 314 isa centrifugal fan. The 180 degree corner sweep air vane 316 may becomposed of a copper material, which has a naturalantibacterial/antiviral properties. The 180 degree corner sweep airvanes 316 help to maintain desirable air flow in duct bends inside thebiocide chamber where upon impact, air particulate in aerosolized formare spread on the 180 degree corner sweep air vanes 316 Copper surfacefurther adding exposure and UV-C broiling and sterilizing opportunity.The surface impact broil surface impact broil vent grill 320 is optionaland it provides surface impact and broil opportunity but when removeddoubles the intensity of the overlapping UV-C germicidal irradiation(UVGI).

FIG. 4A depicts a sectional view 400 a of an alternative configurationof the inner components of a high intensity light UV-C sterilization andfiltration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The embodimentdisplays an upright, ductless, standalone plug and play air purifier andwould be suitable processing up to 48 ft³ or less air volume forfiltration and sterilization every 6 to 8 seconds.

FIG. 4B depicts an isometric view 400 b of an alternative configurationof the outer components of the high intensity light UV-C sterilizationand filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The filtrationunit 110 is shown comprising additional components from FIG. 3A such asa direct air capture ventilation nozzle 402 and a fresh air mixtureventilation nozzle 404.

Direct air capture ventilation nozzle 402 and fresh air mixtureventilation nozzle 404 are provision for either air hose or air ductattachment point to interlink and facilitate the process of capturingcontaminated air directly from the point of sources and fresh airventilation duct 114 for percentage fresh air mixture intake requirementfrom either a direct open air source or from an existing conditioned airsupply of an HVAC system respectively.

FIG. 4C depicts a rear view 400 c of an alternative configuration of theouter components of the high intensity light UV-C sterilization andfiltration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.

FIG. 5A depicts an exploded view 500 a of a basic unit of a highintensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamberas in one embodiment. The embodiment displays an upright, ductless,standalone plug and play air purifier and would be suitable forprocessing up to 48 ft³ or less air volume for filtration andsterilization every 6 to 8 seconds. The filtration unit 110 is showncomprising additional components from

FIG. 3A and FIG. 4B such as an air inlet nozzle and box 502 and an airoutlet nozzle and box 504.

The collected air mixture enters through the air inlet nozzle and box502 featuring an optional multi-layer and staggered airfoil light trapvents 322 with the leading edge of the airfoil facing opposite the windsair flow direction allowing a smooth laminar air flow for the collectedair volume into the centralized filtration unit 110 biocide chamberwhilst the same surface area relative to the max thickness of theairfoils act as a light trap using shadowing method significantlyblocking visible light from illuminating beyond the airfoil light trapvents 322.

Once inside the sterilization and filtration unit 110 biocide chamber,the isolated air will navigate through a maze composed of typically four(4) sterilizing or curing cells that incorporates four (4) germicidalUV-C lamps 318 running horizontal at the upper and bottom room of thebiocide chamber with a surface impact broil vent grills 320 runningparallel the germicidal UV-C lamps 318 in the middle of the first threecuring cells.

The sterilization process immediately begins as the isolated air isexposed and flows across the germicidal UV-C lamp 318 and once againupon impact on the surface impact broil vent grills 320, which providesa physical surface and multi-boundary layer particulate impaction andbroil opportunity on both sides of the surface impact broil vent grills320, this process is repeated in each of the first three (3) curingcells.

Proper dosage is an integral objective of the high intensity light UV-Csterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber's function, withlow-pressure mercury germicidal UV-C lamps 318, which has its main(>90%) emission at a strong wavelength of 254 nm means it does notproduce ozone, moreover the 254 nm germicidal wavelength will destroyozone and while doing so meets the dosage requirement by providing aplatform for sterilizing with a time factor to the equation (irradiancemultiplied by the exposure time in seconds) inside the high intensitylight UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber's foldedruler type and proactively purposed aerodynamic internal ducting system,incorporating 180° degree u-turn corner sweep air vanes 316 for smoothair flow through duct corners with airfoil inspired grills, vents andlouvers allowing it to have a protractile and compact body where airtravels a distance (20 ft′+) from air inlet to air outlet of the highintensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber,in a volume area of (48 ft³ or more) drawn by a high-efficiency fan(240CFM +) with an airflow velocity unit of 120 ft/min we achieve aclose to 10 seconds exposure time under a proportionate photon coverageand optimal overlapping UV-C irradiation on each of the foursterilization from 254 nm wavelength germicidal UV-C lamp 318 source.

Air velocity (distance traveled per unit of time) is usually expressedin Linear Feet per Minute (LFM). By multiplying air velocity by thecross section area of a duct, you can determine the air volume flowingpast a point in the duct per unit of time. Volume flow is usuallymeasured in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM). Air Changes per Hour (ACH orACPH) of an air purifier determines how many times the device canexchange the whole volumetric air from a specific sized room in an hour.To calculate the Air Changes per Hour, there are two requirements. Thefirst one is the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) in cubic feet per minute(cfm) of the air purifier, and the second one is the dimensions of theroom using the air purifier.

Air Changes per Hour=(CADR in cfm×60)/(L×W×H)

High Intensity Light UV-C Dosage—A constant UV-C germicidal input of 51W/m² from two (2) 75 watts UV-C lamps with exposure time of 8 secondsinside high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unitbiocide chamber ducting system achieve the recommended 5 mw/cm² for 8seconds or 40 mJ/cm² to inactivate the virus however, by removing thesurface impact broil vent grill the overlapping UVCGI coverage ismultiplied by four (4) thereby increasing to double the irradiance valueof 5 mw/cm² to 10 mw/cm² that with an 8 second exposure time a dosage of80 mJ/cm² is achieved.

A plurality of true HEPA filters 302 is purposely placed in between andparallels the upper and lower 254 nm UVC germicidal UV-C lamps 318irradiating both side of the true HEPA filters 302 inside thesterilization (curing) cell for continual sterilization and guaranteethe HEPA filter 302 is not a viable source of infectious agents duringreal time operation and does not pose any hazard to the technicianduring filter replacement and/or high intensity light UV-C sterilizationand filtration unit biocide chamber unit maintenance. It is housed in acartridge compartment that can be accessed from the outside of themachine; it also features a safety power shut down function for when thecartridge compartment door is open. The HEPA filters 302 are certifiedto remove 99.97% of all microscopic particles as small as 0.3 microns insize thus a sterilized and filtered air is produced in the processinside the 4th and last sterilization (curing) cell.

The fresh, sterile and filtered air is eventually drawn out through theair outlet vents 310, having the same multi-layer and staggered airfoillight trap vents 322 with the leading edge of the airfoil facingopposite the wind air flow direction allowing a smooth laminar air flow,with the wide surface area relative to the max thickness of the airfoilacting as a light trap using shadowing method significantly blockingvisible light illuminating beyond the airfoil light trap vents 322 ofthe high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocidechamber.

The collected air volume will be subjected to a multistage sterilizationand a final true HEPA filtration process where it would enter the firstof four (4) sterilization (curing) cells that make up the wholecentralized biocide chamber, each sterilization (curing) cell has a 10f³ volume capacity where air volume would first travel down and beirradiated across a section of (2) ea. 254 nm germicidal UV-C lamps 318which is a part of four (4) ea. 254 nm germicidal UV-C lamps 318purposely laid out horizontally, two (2) ea. lamps on the upper chamberand two (2) ea. lamps in the bottom chamber, perpendicular through foursterilization (curing) cells for proportionate photon coverage andoptimal overlapping UV-C irradiation on each of the four sterilization(curing) cells, after which the air will go through the first surfaceimpact broil vent grill 320 that would function as a physical impact andmulti-boundary layer surface filter. After passing through the surfaceimpact broil vent grills 320 it will again be irradiated across asection of (2) ea. 254 nm germicidal UV-C lamps 318, this process isrepeated three (3) more times in a wave like motion through a 24′ longduct folded with a 180° degree multiple u-turn corner sweep air vanes316 to minimize both static and velocity pressure loss allowingefficient 48 ft³ volume air flow @ 240 cfm within a compact 2×4×6 ft.high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocidechamber.

The high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocidechamber collects air at identified at pre-determined area with high riskof contamination and then sterilize with low-pressure mercury lamp,which has its main (>90%) emission at 254 nm with the UV dose(irradiance multiplied by the exposure time in seconds) achieved insidethe high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocidechamber without exposing in room occupants to UV-C light in real timeoperation.

In some embodiments, the sterilization and filtration unit 110 mayconsist of a frameless construction in which the body is used as astructural member, for simple disassembly for transportation and throughdoor delivery access. Other components within the sterilization andfiltration unit 110 may include, electrical wiring and associatedcomponents, sensors and testing apparatuses, actuators, rolling wheelsand rolling wheel stands.

FIG. 5B depicts a sectional view 500 b of a basic unit of a highintensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamberas in one embodiment.

FIG. 5C depicts an isometric view 500 c of a basic unit of a highintensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamberas in one embodiment.

FIG. 5D depicts a rear view 500 d of a basic unit of a high intensitylight UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in oneembodiment.

FIG. 6A depicts a sectional view 600 a of a linear extended highintensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamberas in one embodiment. The embodiment displays an upright, ductless,standalone plug and play air purifier and would be suitable forventilation, filtration and sterilization of an area of 80 ft³ or less.

FIG. 6B depicts an isometric view 600 b of a linear extended highintensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamberas in one embodiment.

FIG. 6C depicts a rear view 600 c of a linear extended high intensitylight UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in oneembodiment.

FIG. 7A depicts a sectional view 700 a of a side mount extended highintensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamberas in one embodiment. The embodiment displays an upright, ductless,standalone plug and play air purifier and would be suitable forprocessing up to 96 ft³ or less air volume for filtration andsterilization every 6 to 8 seconds.

For room size up to 15′ ft.×20′ ft. with a×10′ ft. ceiling (3,000 ft³)Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) in cubic feet per minute (cfm) of 750 CFMwill produce an air velocity unit value of 375 ft/min (LFM) flowinginside the 96 ft³ linear extended filtration unit 110 and 96 ft³ sidemount extended filtration unit 110 48′ ft. long internal duct andachieving 15 ACH (air changes/hour) thus maintaining a maximum exposuretime of 7.7 seconds multiplied by proportionate photon coverage andoptimal overlapping germicidal UV-C irradiation which has its main(>90%) emission at 254 nm to meet UV-C dosage requirement to sterilizethe air including inactivating viruses. The 96 ft³ extended modelfiltration unit 110 offers 2 modular assembly options relative toavailable room dimension and or floor space requirement. It takesapproximately 4 minutes to clean the room air.

FIG. 7B depicts an isometric view 700 b of a side mount extended highintensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamberas in one embodiment.

FIG. 7C depicts a rear view 700 c of a side mount extended highintensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamberas in one embodiment.

FIG. 8A depicts a sectional view 800 a of a high capacity combinationassembly high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unitbiocide chamber as in one embodiment. The embodiment displays anupright, ductless, standalone plug and play air purifier and would besuitable for processing up to 192 ft³ or less air volume for filtrationand sterilization every 6 to 8 seconds.

For room size up to 20′ ft.×28′ ft. with a 10′ ft. ceiling (5,600 ft³)and up to 192 ft³ high capacity combination assembly high intensitylight UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber with CleanAir Delivery Rate (CADR) in cubic feet per minute (cfm) of 1400 CFMproducing an air velocity unit value of 700 ft/min (LFM) flowing insidethe filtration unit 110 96′ ft. internal duct length and achieving 15ACH (air changes/hour) thus maintaining a maximum exposure time of 8.2seconds multiplied by proportionate photon coverage and optimaloverlapping germicidal UV-C irradiation which has its main (>90%)emission at 254 nm to meet UV-C dosage requirement to sterilize the airincluding inactivating viruses. It takes approximately 4 minutes toclean the room air.

FIG. 8B depicts a sectional isometric view 800 b of a high capacitycombination assembly high intensity light UV-C sterilization andfiltration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.

FIG. 8C depicts a sectional rear view 800 c of a high capacitycombination assembly high intensity light UV-C sterilization andfiltration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.

FIG. 9 depicts a restaurant application 900 of an upright, ductless,standalone plug and play high intensity light UV-C sterilization andfiltration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The embodimentwould be suitable for processing up to 48 ft³ or less air volume forfiltration and sterilization every 6 to 8 seconds.

FIG. 10 depicts a medical or dental operatory room application 1000 of aductless, standalone plug and play high intensity light UV-Csterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment.The embodiment would be suitable for processing up to 48 ft³ or less airvolume for filtration and sterilization every 6 to 8 seconds.

FIG. 11 depicts a classroom application 1100 of a stratifieddisplacement recirculating air ventilation system with a high intensitylight UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in oneembodiment. The other filtration units 110 presented previously can beapplied within this system to allow for suitable for processing up to 48ft³ to up to 192 ft³ air volume for filtration and sterilization every 6to 8 seconds.

FIG. 12 depicts a public transportation application 1200 of a commuterroof mounted assembly of a high intensity light UV-C sterilization andfiltration unit biocide chamber as in one embodiment. The samedepictions can also be utilized for purpose of an in room upper ceilingmounted re circulating air ventilation system with a high intensitylight UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber as in oneembodiment.

In a 12′ ft.×12′ ft. with a 10′ ft. ceiling room (1,440 ft³) Clean AirDelivery Rate (CADR) in cubic feet per minute (cfm) of 360 CFM willproduce an air velocity unit value of 180 ft/min (LFM) flowing insidethe upright ductless, the ductless and the basic up to 48 ft³ filtrationunits 110, as well as the commuter roof mounted up to 48 ft³ filtrationunit 110 24′ ft. internal duct and achieving 15 ACH (air changes/hour)thus maintaining a maximum exposure time of 8 seconds, multiplied byproportionate photon coverage and optimal overlapping germicidal UV-Cirradiation which has its main (>90%) emission at 254 nm to meet UVCdosage requirement to sterilize the air including inactivating viruses.

It takes approximately 4 minutes to clean the room air.

It should also be noted that the steps described in the method of usecan be carried out in many different orders according to userpreference. The use of “step of” should not be interpreted as “stepfor”, in the claims herein and is not intended to invoke the provisionsof 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). It should also be noted that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as design preference, userpreferences, marketing preferences, cost, structural requirements,available materials, technological advances, etc., other methods aretaught herein.

The embodiments of the invention described herein are exemplary andnumerous modifications, variations and rearrangements can be readilyenvisioned to achieve substantially equivalent results, all of which areintended to be embraced within the spirit and scope of the invention.Further, the purpose of the foregoing abstract is to enable the U.S.Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally, and especially thescientist, engineers and practitioners in the art who are not familiarwith patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from acursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure ofthe application.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. Certainadaptations and modifications of the invention will be obvious to thoseskilled in the art. Therefore, the presently discussed embodiments areconsidered to be illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of theinvention being indicated by the appended claims rather than theforegoing description and all changes which come within the meaning andrange of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embracedtherein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A stratified displacement recirculating airventilation system for sterilizing and filtering unpurified air within aconfined space, comprising: one or more air intake suction vents mountedin the upper room of an occupied zone coupled to one or more negativepressure air distribution ducts such that said unpurified air is drawnupwards into said one or more negative pressure air distribution ductswherein said one or more negative pressure air distribution ductsdelivers said unpurified air to a high intensity light UV-Csterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber via negative pressure;one or more air dampers coupled to a fresh air mixture duct furthercoupled to a direct air capture ventilation duct such that an optionalfresh air source outside and for the process of capturing contaminatedair directly from the point of sources of said confined space is drawninto said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unitbiocide chamber wherein said unpurified air is processed into purifiedand sterile air via said high intensity light UV-C sterilization andfiltration unit biocide chamber by means of the biocide chamber'saerodynamic specification meeting the completed UVC dosage requirementto kill and or inactivate airborne pathogens; and one or more positivepressure air return distribution ducts coupled to one or more fans suchthat said purified air is drawn out from said high intensity light UV-Csterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber through said one ormore positive pressure air return distribution ducts and out into saidconfined space; wherein said high intensity light UV-C sterilization andfiltration unit biocide chamber comprises: a plurality of sterilizationcells, a plurality of UV-C germicidal lamps, a plurality of surfaceimpact air foil grills, and one or more HEPA filters; and a plurality ofmodular frame components to expand and provide a longer air traveldistance in Linear Flow per Minute (LFM) for UVC Germicidal Irradiation(UVCGI), the module frame components comprising a plurality of 180degree corner sweep air vanes.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein thebiocide chamber processes up to 48 ft³ of air volume during a 6 to 8second period.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the biocide chamberfurther comprises one or more surface impact broil vent grills.
 4. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the modular frame components of the biocidechamber further comprises one or more airfoil light trap vents wherein aleading edge of each airfoil faces opposite wind air flow direction. 5.The system of claim 1, further comprising a direct air captureventilation nozzle and a fresh air mixture ventilation nozzle.
 6. Thesystem of claim 1, comprising four sterilization cells, each of the foursterilization cells comprising a true HEPA filter and two UV-Cgermicidal lamps, with one of the two UV-C germicidal lamps mounted oneach airflow side of the true HEPA filter.
 7. The system of claim 6,wherein each UV-C germicidal lamp is provided as a single UV-C lamppassing through all four sterilization cells.
 8. A method of sterilizingand filtering unpurified air within a confined space, comprising:drawing unpurified air through one or more air intake suction ventsmounted in the upper room of an occupied zone coupled to one or morenegative pressure air distribution ducts such that said unpurified airis drawn upwards into said one or more negative pressure airdistribution ducts; delivering said unpurified air to a high intensitylight UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber vianegative pressure via said one or more negative pressure airdistribution ducts; optionally drawing fresh air into said highintensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chambervia one or more air dampers coupled to a fresh air mixture duct furthercoupled to a direct air capture ventilation duct; processing saidunpurified air into purified and sterile air via said high intensitylight UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber by means ofthe biocide chamber's aerodynamic specification meeting the completedUVC dosage requirement to kill and or inactivate airborne pathogens;returning said purified air to said confined space via one or morepositive pressure air return distribution ducts coupled to one or morefans such that said purified air is drawn out from said high intensitylight UV-C sterilization and filtration unit biocide chamber throughsaid one or more positive pressure air return distribution ducts;wherein said high intensity light UV-C sterilization and filtration unitbiocide cham ber com prises: a plurality of sterilization cells, aplurality of UV-C germicidal lamps, a plurality of surface impact airfoil grills, and one or more HEPA filters; and a plurality of modularframe components to expand and provide a longer air travel distance inLinear Flow per Minute (LFM) for UVC Germicidal Irradiation (UVCGI), themodule frame components comprising a plurality of 180 degree cornersweep air vanes.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the biocide chamberprocesses up to 48 ft³ of air volume during a 6 to 8 second period. 10.The method of claim 8, wherein the biocide chamber further comprises oneor more surface impact broil vent grills.
 11. The method of claim 8,wherein the modular frame components of the biocide chamber furthercomprises one or more airfoil light trap vents wherein a leading edge ofeach airfoil faces opposite wind air flow direction.
 12. The method ofclaim 8, wherein the fresh air mixture duct further and the direct aircapture ventilation duct further comprise a direct air captureventilation nozzle and a fresh air mixture ventilation nozzle.
 13. Themethod of claim 8, wherein the step of processing said unpurified aircomprises passing the unpurified air through a set of four sterilizationcells, each of the four sterilization cells comprising a true HEPAfilter and two UV-C germicidal lamps, with one of the two UV-Cgermicidal lamps mounted on each side of the true HEPA filter.
 14. Themethod of claim 13, wherein each UV-C germicidal lamp is provided as asingle UV-C lamp passing through all four sterilization cells.